Prep report: Scott's home run with a wood bat a relief for Marin Catholic baseball team still dealing with tragedy

After a long week full of helplessness and devastation, the Marin Catholic High baseball team danced off the field a winner in Tuesday's key MCAL game against visiting Drake. It was all thanks to the crack of a wooden bat.

Tyler Scott's leadoff blast in the bottom of the eighth inning sailed over the left-field fence to give the Wildcats (3-1, 2-0) a 3-2 win over the Pirates (4-2, 2-1). Both schools used wooden bats in the game played just days after MC pitcher Gunnar Sandberg suffered a fractured skull Thursday when a line drive hit off a metal bat struck him above the right ear. Sandberg remains in a coma induced by doctors Friday when his brain began to swell. He is in stable condition, but caregivers are uncertain when they might be able to wake him up.

"My athletic director and principal came to me this morning and said we want to set an example. We were going to use wood bats today no matter what," MC coach Mike Firenzi said. Drake agreed to use the bats as well. Many believe that balls hit hard by metal bats contribute to injury risk for fielders. High school organizations in North Dakota and New York City have banned metal bats.

"Aside from the safety issue, I have to say I love the wood-bat game," Drake coach Adam Farb said. "It was just a great baseball game. We were glad to participate. It's been a rough time for everyone on both sides. Gunnar has a lot of friends."

Drake's Patrick Conroy and MC's Rob Woodcock locked in a pitcher's duel for the first six innings. Conroy left after allowing one earned run and three hits with five strikeouts after six innings. Woodcock also gave up one earned run, striking out eight and allowing four hits.

"The wood bats made it a smaller game, but still, this was a matchup of two of the top pitchers in Northern California," Farb said.

Gene Della Zoppa had a run-scoring double to erase a 1-0 Drake lead in the bottom of the fifth. After Drake retook the lead in the top of the sixth, MC tied the game on an error. By the time the eighth inning rolled around, Firenzi was on the edge of his seat.

"That ball Tyler hit was going to go out if he hit with metal, wood or plastic. He hit it on the sweet spot," MC's coach said. "I know the kids really let loose big time when it went out. Today is the best thing that has happened in the last four or five days."

Robbie Maguire drove in both runs for Drake.

Neither Firenzi nor Farb knew if the league would consider using wood bats the rest of the season. Firenzi said that discussions among athletic directors and the league commissioners were expected to happen soon.

Redwood 5, Novato 4

The difference: In the top of the seventh with one out and the bases loaded, Novato needed just one run to tie the game. Relief pitcher Nathan Tsang induced a game-ending double play to help the Giants (5-0, 3-0) preserve their undefeated season. Tsang relieved the pitcher of record Robbie Chrisman, who went 6 1/3 innings, allowing four earned runs on four hits and seven strikeouts. Alex Boeri went 2-for-4 with an RBI and Tadeusz Finnie was 2-for-3 with two RBIs. Jeff Tanaka and Matt Mendelsohn both homered for Novato (0-2, 0-2).

From the coach: "We get what we need," Redwood's Stefan Wever said. "We don't necessarily outslaughter the other team, but we get timely hits."

Notable: Redwood struck out just once at the plate for the second time in consecutive games.

Terra Linda 12, Branson 3

The difference: Adam Griffith and Mike Gold each went 3-for-4 with three RBIs to lead the Trojans (1-4, 1-2) to a blowout win over the Bulls (1-3, 1-2). Kazuma Kaneko was 2-for-3 with a double and Billy Galvin went 1-for-2 with a double and two RBIs. James McReynolds pitched four innings, yielding three runs to earn the win.

From the coach: "Everyone hit the ball today and we need to carry that into our next game," TL's Jesse Madsen said.

Notable: Jordan Lazor laced a two-run double for Branson. Teammate Logan Mobley had a triple, and Ben Greenberg went 2-for-2.

Tam 3, San Rafael 0

The difference: Mac Huffman was 1-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored for Tam. PJ Kunwar walked three times , stole three bases and scored two runs. Carlos Dorenbaum pitched a complete game shutout allowing four hits and striking out three batters.

From the coach: "That's exactly what we needed," Tam's Mike Terry said. "Dorenbaum was able to throw a complete game in 64 pitches. In a week where we have four games that helps us a lot. Defense and pitching is what gets us going and we had both of those today."

San Marin 4, Justin-Siena 3

The difference: Brian Soares went 2-for-2 and scored the winning run on an error with two outs in the bottom of the seventh as the Mustangs squeaked out a victory against visiting Justin-Siena (2-1, 1-1). Nick Driscoll (five innings pitched, four strikeouts) and Brad Smith (two innings, one strikeout) combined on a one-hitter for San Marin (1-3, 1-2).

From the coach: "It was nice to go out there today with a team effort and put together a victory," San Marin's Mark Whitburn said.

Clear Lake 12, Tomales 1

The difference: Stan Moody went 2-for-2 with a first-inning RBI double that led to Tomales' (0-2) only run of the game against Clear Lake (3-0). Brett Bell, playing his first game since having reconstructive knee surgery, went 1-for-3.

From the coach: "We were a little thin today. I was a couple of players down and had to bring up (junior varsity) players to fill there spot," Tomales' Bill Tucker said.

SOFTBALL

San Marin 3, Justin-Siena 2

The difference: Dani Albini did it all for the Mustangs (3-1, 3-0), pitching a complete game and collecting two hits while scoring a run and driving in two, including the game-winning run with two outs in the bottom of the seventh. Samantha Hassett was 2-for-3 from the nine-hole and scored the winning run on Albini's single.

From the coach: "I feel like we're still in preseason because we haven't had any preseason games because we got a lot of players so late after basketball," San Marin's Randy Willis said. "Being 3-0 is just unbelievable because we're still trying to gel as a team."

Pinole Valley 3, Redwood 1

The difference: Maddie Rubin pitched seven innings of one-run ball against defending Division II section champion Pinole Valley (5-0), but took the hard-luck loss as the Spartans rallied to score two runs in the top of the eighth to earn the extra-inning win. Rubin struck out seven and walked just two while yielding four hits. Paris Gravely led off the bottom of the second inning with a home run to left, the only run Redwood (2-3) would score.

From the coach: "I was proud of Maddie that she went that long just giving up one run," Redwood's Gary Casassa said. "She pitched a gorgeous game."

Notable: Lindsey Matteo, Megan Atkinson and Annie Boyer each recorded base hits for the Giants.

Tomales 11, Geyserville 0

The difference: The Braves scored eight times in the top of the first. It was more than enough support for pitcher Nicole Nygard, who yielded just two hits over five innings while striking out seven. Mariela Lozano was the offensive standout, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs, while Christa Nygard was 1-for-3 and drove in a pair of runs as well. Tomales (2-1) got revenge on a Geyserville team (1-2) that ousted the Braves from the section playoffs last year.

From the coach: "It kind of makes us feel a little better, getting a little revenge for last year," Tomales' Bob Harr said. "They're in our division as far as playoffs are concerned, so it sends a message that we're to be reckoned with in Division VI."

GIRLS SOCCER

Tam 2, Novato 0

The difference: Essie Winer's goal in the 60th minute gave Tam all it would need to beat Novato (2-1-0, 0-1-0) in its MCAL opener. Phebe Miller put the game away for the Red-tailed Hawks (5-0-2,1-0-0) with her goal in the 68th minute. Miller finished an Ava Geupel free kick from 35 yards out that was directed to the back post.

From the coach: "Every point you can get this year is going to be important," Dustin Nygaard said. "To get three (points) in the first game was good. We settled down and played good soccer in the second half. "

Notable: McCall Hoyt recorded her sixth shutout in as many games.

Redwood 2, Marin Catholic 0

The difference: After a 75-minute stalemate, Olivia Kontinen scored off of a miscleared ball by Marin Catholic to give Redwood a road win in its MCAL opener. Kontinen scored again just as the game entered stoppage time to seal the victory for the Giants.

From the coach: "Marin Catholic is a really good team, so it was a big one for us for sure," Redwood's Jason Werner said.

Notable: Marin Catholic coach Rob Funes complimented Mary Pyne and Kristi Cascio for strong play for the first 75 minutes on the back line.

San Marin 4, Terra Linda 0

The difference: Ali Juarez got the Mustangs (8-0-1, 1-0-0) on the board in the 30th minute and capped the San Marin scoring in the 69th minute as the Mustangs earned a comfortable win over the Trojans (2-4-1, 0-1-0). Nicole Roberts also scored and had an assist, while San Marin's third tally came courtesy of a TL own goal.

From the coach: "We gained a lot of confidence getting results early in the season," San Marin's Tyler Gottschalk said. "It was real important for us to get off to a good start in league play, and we're happy to have done that, but now we're focused on our next match at Justin-Siena on Thursday."

Notable: Gottschalk said Amelia Kao was solid in shutting down several of the Trojans' threats. Sarah Lucia assisted Juarez's second goal.

Justin-Siena 2, San Rafael 0

The difference: Emily Hagin scored what would be the game-winner for the Braves off of a free kick near the end of the first half. Jules Lied put the game away with a 73rd minute goal assisted by Caroline Zaia.

From the coach: "They kept us in check, but overall we are happy with our play," Justin-Siena's Paul Mead said. "It was good too because we aren't used to playing on grass."

Drake 3, Branson 0

The difference: Emma Meckfessel was the player of the match, according to Drake coach Rene Ayala, helping to clear balls out of her team's end and set up the Pirates' offense in helping Drake (5-1-2, 1-0-0) win its MCAL opener against Branson (1-2-1, 0-1-0). Erin Freeman, Ellen Sarkisian and Maddy Smith scored.

From the coach: "The wind really blows at (the College of Marin soccer field), but Emma was just hammering balls from our back into Branson's defensive end. It made all the difference," Ayala said.

Notable: Drake goalie Annie Front made a key save with 10 minutes remaining in the half to preserve the Pirates' lead and set the tone for the rest of the game. Branson coach Tom Ryan credited center midfielder Marnie Lanphier with a strong game, and also thought keeper Annie Krabbenschmidt played well despite allowing three goals.

From the coach: "It was a fantastic match all-around. We lost, but I am so happy to see the way we competed today. I think they surprised themselves," Branson's Hamilton Boggs said. "(Zeisler) was rock solid for Redwood. He just grinded and pulled out amazing shot after amazing shot."

Notable: Branson's Alex Schwartz earned a 6-4, 4-6, 10-8 win at No. 4 singles. Barrett Hansen and Will Harvey played well to get a 6-2, 6-2 win at No. 1 doubles.

Tam 9, Terra Linda 0

The difference: The Red-tailed Hawks (9-5, 2-3) executed just about the cleanest sweep possible, dropping just four total games in a rout of the Trojans (0-5). Oliver Ramin won his first MCAL singles match 6-0, 6-0. Oliver Ramin teamed up with Gabe Sandrolini to win his first MCAL doubles match as well, 6-0, 6-1.

From the coach: "(The guys) went out and were very efficient about it," Tam's Bill Washauer said.

Marin Catholic 6, San Marin 3

The difference: Sean Dowd defeated San Marin's No. 3 singles player Ryan Giannini 6-4,6-2 to help Marin Catholic pick up the road win. San Marin (2-3) was led by Josh Bernstein, who defeated Alex Wilson of Marin Catholic (2-3) in the No. 1 singles match.

From the coach: "We played pretty well, but there were a couple of matches I thought we could do better in," San Marin's Ryan Berberian said. "I'd like to improve every match and I think we are doing that. I think we are improving every match."

From the coach: "The score doesn't tell you, but Tim kept Michael out there a long time," Novato's Birdie Petrini said. "If (Justin) doesn't come in No. 1 (in the league) I'm going to be really cranky. They have some fantastic players."

Notable: Petrini was impressed by Novato's Tobe Panar, who lost 6-0, 7-5 to Chris Lopez at No. 6 singles. She also pointed out strong play from Jordan Greene, who lost 6-3, 6-4 at No. 2 singles.

From the coach: "We're generally not as deep. There's a level of experience that other teams have that our kids don't have," San Rafael's Hanlon Chan said.

Notable: Casey Stolberg and Michael Roland had the closest match of the day, falling to Neal Chavez and Nate Harms at No. 2 doubles, 7-5, 6-3.

Marin Academy 5, Urban 0

The difference: Jamie Grossman pulled off a 6-1, 6-1 win at No. 1 singles and the rest of the Wildcats (10-4, 5-0 Bay Counties League West) followed suit in a clean sweep of San Francisco's Urban (2-1, 1-1), with each player winning in straight sets. Chet Kristy won at No. 2 singles and Shayan Shooshtarian triumphed at No. 3.

From the coach: "The singles guys have been playing the top three positions all year, and they've been playing pretty solidly," MA's Geoff Martinez said.

Notable: No. 1 doubles tandem David Fisher and Marshall Levensohn came the closest to dropping a set, but managed to earn a 7-6 (4), 6-1 win. Dylan Fisher teamed up with Jeff Zayas for a victory at No. 2 doubles.

BOYS GOLF

San Marin 213, Drake 228

The difference: No. 5 player Eric Sundborg scored a 4-over-par 40 to clinch the victory for San Marin (1-4) at Indian Valley. Mike Biancello shot a 39 for the Mustangs, while Kyle Kelly led Drake (2-4) with a 42.

From the coach: "The match was within one stroke when (Sundborg and Alex Triantafyllos) went out. When you get a 40 and a 45, it makes a big difference," San Marin's Bob Lacy said. "Biancello had a great rebound performance for him. He is the lead in the school musical, so he has a lot going on. The fact that he was able to focus on a golf match was pretty good."

Justin-Siena 205, Novato 227

The difference: Matt Briggs shot a 2-over-par 38 for Novato (4-6, 2-5) and Andy Fronczak shot a 42, but Justin's Nos. 3-5 players were more consistent than the Hornets at Chardonnay Golf Club in Napa.

From the coach: "Our first two players played well, but our next three had a couple of big numbers on their cards," Novato coach Steve Snyder said. "I know we're capable of playing a lot better."

Notable: Jack Wilson fired a 39 for the Braves (6-2, 3-1).

Redwood 209, Terra Linda 259

The difference: Jeffrey Lim medaled with a 1-over-par 37 at Marin Country Club and Paul Glass was not far behind at 39 as the Giants (4-2, 3-2) beat the Trojans. Spencer Ireland carded a 40 and Ryan Strobel came in at 45.

From the coach: "It was a good round, but we have a tough match coming up on Thursday (against San Rafael), so it's a start," Redwood's George Lim said.

Notable: David Vyas paced TL (0-6) at 43.

Branson 199, Tam 211

The difference: Carl Sennett and Buddy Wartel led the way for the Bulls with both shooting a two over 38 at Peacock Gap. Sennett has shot in the 30s four times in his past five matches. Jackson McDonald had the low round of the day

From the coach: "We started the year with a loss which was surprising to us, but now we've won seven in a row," Branson's Al Endriss said.

Urban 170, Marin Academy 171

The difference: The Marin Academy golf team came up just two strokes short of beating Urban at the Blue Devils' home course, San Francisco's Presidio Golf Club. Alex Hartzell shot a 41 for the Wildcats.

From the coach: "They were a tough team and we played them on their home course," Marin Academy's Bryan Sisneros said. "We played them well. Hopefully we will get them back at San Geronimo next week."

BOYS LACROSSE

Tam 8, Bishop O'Dowd 7

The difference: Brian Scott tallied four goals and an assist, Alex Factor scored two goals and assisted another and Josh Phelps found the back of the net twice as Tam (3-2) overcame a 5-4 halftime deficit to garner a close victory over Oakland's Bishop O'Dowd (3-1). Red-tailed Hawks goalie Nick Pacula notched 14 saves, many of them in the second half when Tam held the Dragons to just two scores.

From the coach: "The ground ball game made the biggest difference in the second half," Tam's Jon Porter said. "We won the ground ball game in the second half and that ultimately dictated us winning the game."

Berkeley 13, Redwood 5

The difference: Dan Balok and Adam Rosenthal each scored two goals and had two assists in a losing effort for Redwood (0-3). Goalie Hunter Hall saved 16 shots from the Berkeley (2-2) attack.

From the coach: "The Giants came out very flat to a fired up Berkeley team," Redwood's Keith Denebeim. "We fell behind in the first half and we were never able to catch up."

Marin Academy 13, Urban 2

The difference: Zach Zeff tallied three goals and three assists and Brett Suddendorf also scored a hat trick as the Wildcats (2-0, 1-0) beat Bay Counties League West foe Urban of San Francisco. Ni Titus chipped in two goals and two assists and Tommy Barger scored one goal and assisted another.

From the coach: "I've been really pleased the first two games, we've really been spreading the scoring around," MA's Josh Frechette said.

GIRLS LACROSSE

Redwood 14, Berkeley 10

The difference: Lauren Toy scored three goals, had five assists and picked up five ground balls to help her Giants claim a home victory. Tori Snell scored two goals and retrieved five ground balls for Redwood (3-2).

From the coach: "They had a really good attack and they ran some plays that got by our defense, but eventually we were able to stop them," Redwood's Elizabeth Tisdale said.

Acalanes 10, Marin Catholic 4

The difference: Sarah Kelly scored two goals for the Wildcats in a losing effort. Emily Cincebeaux and Megan McCullough each had one goal and one assist for Marin Catholic (4-1) in its loss to Acalanes (2-4).

From the coach: "Our defense did a great job holding them off, but our offense just couldn't convert," Marin Catholic's Whitney Hanley said. "When the ball came down the field, we couldn't put it in the net."

GIRLS SWIMMING

Berkeley 103, Terra Linda 81

The difference: The Trojans (2-1) won six events, but it was not enough as Berkeley had a bit more depth and earned the win in a non-league dual meet. Carly Ohmart was a double-winner for TL, taking first in the 200- and 500-meter freestyle races. Alex Able was the top finisher in the 100 backstroke, while teammate Katie Charton won the 200 individual medley.

From the coach: "The girls did really well," TL's Katie MacLean said. "They got a lot of first places but Berkeley won by getting second and thirds."

BOYS SWIMMING

Terra Linda 119, Berkeley 66

The difference: Trent Williams, Alex Henry and Robert Heim were all double-winners as the Trojans (3-0) stayed undefeated by winning a non-league meet with Berkeley. Williams was victorious in both the 200-meter freestyle and 100 butterfly, Henry won the 200 individual medley and 500 free, and Heim took first in the 50 and 100 free races.

From the coach: "(The boys) just dominated every race they were in," TL's Katie MacLean said.